MS HB49

Prohibits selling or furnishing alternative nicotine products to anyone under 21 years of age while on or within 1,500 feet of educational property, with penalties ranging from $500-$1,500 and 20-50 hours of community service for first through third offenses.

Increases penalties to triple the base fines and community service hours for violations occurring within 1,000 feet of churches, public parks, ballparks, gymnasiums, youth centers, or movie theaters.

Expands the definition of alternative nicotine products to include electronic devices, cartridges, components, liquids, capsules, powders, electronic cigars, and cigarillos.

Raises the age restriction for purchasing alternative nicotine products from 18 to 21 years of age and increases fines for violations from $50-$100 to $250-$1,000.

Allows for automatic school expulsion of students found possessing alternative nicotine products on educational property and requires age verification (government ID or third-party service) before sales.